How to Safely Use a Patient Lift
Using a patient lift at home can make a big difference when caring for someone with limited mobility. Whether you're helping a loved one recover from surgery, dealing with a long-term condition, or providing daily support for an elderly family member, a safe patient lift can reduce physical strain and lower the risk of injury for both the patient and the caregiver.
However, knowing how to use a patient lift correctly is just as important as having one in the first place.
This guide walks you through how to safely use a patient lift in a home setting, with tips tailored to the types of lifts we carry at Mobile PatientLift, models designed to help move patients from one seated surface to another, like a bed to a wheelchair or a recliner to the toilet.
What Makes These Lifts Different From Hoyer Lifts?
Traditional Hoyer lifts use a cradle-like sling to fully suspend and move a patient, which is useful for those with little to no mobility. The portable patient lifts we focus on are designed for easier everyday transfers, assuming the patient has some control of their upper body and can support themselves during the move.
They're smaller, easier to maneuver, and ideal for home use, but they still require proper technique.
Because the patient stays in a mostly upright position during the transfer, the focus is on balance, strap placement, and control, not suspension. That’s why understanding how to safely use a patient lift of this type is critical — especially if you’ve only seen or used Hoyer-style models before.
Why Safe Patient Lifting Matters
Improper use of a patient lift can lead to serious injury. A lift is meant to give both you and the person you're caring for peace of mind, but only if it's used correctly. There have been documented cases of people falling from patient lifts due to poor setup or misuse.
One such example can be seen in this video, where a young girl was not secured properly in the lift and suffered injuries during a transfer.
Accidents like this can be prevented by learning how to safely use a patient lift and following a few simple steps every time.
Check On The Patient Before Using the Lift
Before lifting patients, take a moment to check their condition, physically and mentally. This quick step is key to safe patient lift use at home.
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Can the patient help? If they can assist in any way, like steadying themselves, it makes the transfer safer.
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Is the lift appropriate? Make sure their weight and condition match the lift’s guidelines.
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Are there any medical concerns? Avoid using the lift if it might worsen their condition.
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Are they mentally ready? The patient should understand what’s happening and feel calm. If they’re confused or combative, hold off on using the lift.
When learning how to safely use a patient lift, patient comfort and clear communication matter just as much as proper technique.
How to Use a Patient Lift Safely at Home
Here’s a simplified process for using a patient lift designed to move someone between seated surfaces:
1. Prepare the Lift
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Check the lift before every use: Look for any loose parts, fraying straps, or battery issues (if powered).
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Make sure the brakes work: You’ll usually want the lift to be stable during positioning, but the wheels should move smoothly when transferring.
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Charge the battery fully if you're using an electric lift. If it’s manual, make sure the hydraulic system is functioning.
2. Explain the Process to the Patient
Even if they’ve used the lift before, always talk them through the process. Let them know when they’ll be moved and how they should help (if they’re able to).
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Ask them to sit up straight and plant their feet flat on the foot platform.
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Ensure arms are inside the harness (if applicable), and remind them to hold the support handles if applicable.
3. Secure the Harness or Support Straps
This is where many accidents happen, so don’t rush this part.
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Double-check that each strap or harness loop is connected to the correct hook or bracket.
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Tighten straps according to the patient’s size and comfort level, but make sure nothing is too loose.
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Make sure the patient’s weight is evenly distributed before lifting.
4. Begin the Transfer
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Lift slowly and steadily. Whether you're using a manual or electric lift, sudden jerks can throw you off balance.
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If your lift is designed to pivot or swivel between surfaces, use gentle guiding pressure to move it — never drag or yank it.
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Move them over the new surface (e.g., wheelchair or commode) and lower them slowly until they are fully supported.
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Ensure that clothing, fingers, or harness straps aren’t caught or pinched during the transfer.
5. Unhook the Harness or Straps Carefully (If applicable)
Once the person is safely seated:
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Remove straps one at a time, keeping communication open.
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If the patient needs help repositioning in the chair or getting comfortable, do so gently after the lift is removed.
Pro Tips for Safer Patient Transfers
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Never leave the patient unattended in the lift.
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Keep the area clear of obstacles like rugs, wires, or furniture.
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If you're unsure or nervous, practice without a person first. Get familiar with the controls and positioning.
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When possible, use a second person to assist during the transfer for added safety.
Confidence Comes from Practice
Patient lifts can transform daily care routines, giving caregivers more freedom and patients more comfort. But a safe transfer is never guaranteed unless you take the time to learn the correct process.
Before your first transfer, review the instructions, inspect the equipment, and don’t hesitate to watch tutorial videos or ask for a demo. The more familiar you are with how to use a patient lift, the safer everyone will feel.
Need help choosing the right safe patient lift for your home? Contact our team and we’ll walk you through the best options for your needs.
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